Since July in ’05 I have been at Mittagong as the Guest Master of The Hermitage, what used to be the Juniorate and the Novitiate combined. Previous to that, I was at Marist Canberra with two RE classes and the balance of the teaching load made up of supervision of Yrs 11 & 12 Study periods. I gained little satisfaction and much angst from a few classes of 64 unco-operative and belligerent seniors and decided that Mittagong was a saner alternative.
Before that I had had 25 years in Marist boarding schools, finishing up at Ashgrove in Brisbane as the Dean of Boarding. I enjoyed the responsibility, ministry and the part that I played in the students’ life.
I completed my B.Sc. at Macquarie in ’88, 20 years after starting it from Dundas. While overseas in ’94 involved in our renewal course, I completed a Masters in Pastoral Studies at Loyola in Chicago.
While thinning on top and widening in the middle, I still enjoy skiing, though the daily cost of a lift ticket is straining the vow of poverty somewhat.
Friday, August 27, 2004
Br Laurie McCann
On leaving Mittagong, I spent the "six months" at Marist Brothers' College Ayr, where it was good to be on the staff of my old school and to spend time with my family, who I'd seen only at Christmas and 2nd July, since leaving home three years previously. Later (1992-1995) I returned to the same school, where I was the penultimate Marist principal, before handing over to the capable hands of a lay principal in 2001. Ah yes, the monks are fewer and older these days. Even Mick Prest's alma mater no longer has a Marist at the helm (a good move, and Ross Tarlington is a fine Marist leader.) After uni at Macquarie (1969-1972), a great experience shared with many of the novices of 67-68, I taught at six different schools over the following fifteen years: Cairns, Enoggera, Mitchelton, Joeys, Gladstone and Lismore. Then followed an exhilarating year (1988) on the Marist Retreat Team, followed by three years as "Master of Scholastics" at Gladesville. Unlike Kieran who had sixty or more of us young men in his care, I had only five. Even so, it was a challenge I'm not keen to repeat! After my second stint at Ayr, I had a wonderful year overseas in 1996, doing the second novitiate at Manziana (Rome), followed by six months in Chicago where I studied at Loyola University. From 1997 to 2003, I worked in Papua New Guinea, mostly in Bougainville (Tarlena High School, then Mabiri High School), where I assisted in trying to restore education to the war-torn island. Interesting times, to say the least, but it was a rewarding period of my life. Returning to Australia in 2004, I took up a teaching position at St Francis Xavier College Hamilton, where I am still.
It has been an interesting life, and I'm still happy in the service. I look back on our formative days at Mittagong with many great memories and I'm looking forward to re-connecting with old friends at the reunion in July.
It has been an interesting life, and I'm still happy in the service. I look back on our formative days at Mittagong with many great memories and I'm looking forward to re-connecting with old friends at the reunion in July.
Tony Britton
From the Schol. I had four great years at Cairns (72-5) and then two more at Maitland (76-7).
After I left at the end of '77 I worked at Bankstown for 18 years at Nazareth, a senior girls' college. I kept in contact with Mick Prest who worked next door at Benilde (the senior boys' school). I really enjoyed my long time there and left at the end of 95 when the CEO decided the college would close at the end of 99. I have since been Head of History at Moriah College at Queens Park - an orthodox Jewish school, so it was (and at times still is) a real culture shock and a very steep learning curve. However, it is handy to home (Coogee) and I suppose now I have become almost part of the furniture.
I met my wife Sue through playing tennis at Coogee in the 80s. We married in 1990 and have 2 children - Stephen (12.5 going on 9) and Jacinta (11 going on 25). They have both been in OC classes at Woollahra PS. Stephen is now in Year 7 at Rose Bay Secondary College, an amalgamation of 2 high schools in the area. He enjoys secondary school much more than primary. Most of my Saturdays are taken up with the kids' cricket, soccer and hockey. They also have tennis lessons with Sue's father (who is the Australian singles champion in the 80s bracket - he turns 80 in November and has played vets for NSW and Australia for many years since his retirement). I have been manager and occasional coach of the cricket and soccer teams.
I am still enjoying teaching although I'd have to say I'm happier and do my best work with the older students (10-12). I have become involved with the HSC subject Society & Culture and have been on its HSC exam committee for the past 2 years. I have also been treasurer of its association for over 5 years. However, history remains my first love.
I have basically no involvement with the Church beyond very occasional attendance. I suppose I drifted away over time and now don't see a lot to return to. Parish Catholicism does not inspire me; it cannot offer what the community life and liturgies used to. My mother makes up for all the family as at the age of 82 she still attends mass at least 3-4 times weekly. She is in good health apart from a weakening knee. Dad died of cancer several years ago. My brother is a grandfather before me through his step-daughter!
Regards,
Tony
After I left at the end of '77 I worked at Bankstown for 18 years at Nazareth, a senior girls' college. I kept in contact with Mick Prest who worked next door at Benilde (the senior boys' school). I really enjoyed my long time there and left at the end of 95 when the CEO decided the college would close at the end of 99. I have since been Head of History at Moriah College at Queens Park - an orthodox Jewish school, so it was (and at times still is) a real culture shock and a very steep learning curve. However, it is handy to home (Coogee) and I suppose now I have become almost part of the furniture.
I met my wife Sue through playing tennis at Coogee in the 80s. We married in 1990 and have 2 children - Stephen (12.5 going on 9) and Jacinta (11 going on 25). They have both been in OC classes at Woollahra PS. Stephen is now in Year 7 at Rose Bay Secondary College, an amalgamation of 2 high schools in the area. He enjoys secondary school much more than primary. Most of my Saturdays are taken up with the kids' cricket, soccer and hockey. They also have tennis lessons with Sue's father (who is the Australian singles champion in the 80s bracket - he turns 80 in November and has played vets for NSW and Australia for many years since his retirement). I have been manager and occasional coach of the cricket and soccer teams.
I am still enjoying teaching although I'd have to say I'm happier and do my best work with the older students (10-12). I have become involved with the HSC subject Society & Culture and have been on its HSC exam committee for the past 2 years. I have also been treasurer of its association for over 5 years. However, history remains my first love.
I have basically no involvement with the Church beyond very occasional attendance. I suppose I drifted away over time and now don't see a lot to return to. Parish Catholicism does not inspire me; it cannot offer what the community life and liturgies used to. My mother makes up for all the family as at the age of 82 she still attends mass at least 3-4 times weekly. She is in good health apart from a weakening knee. Dad died of cancer several years ago. My brother is a grandfather before me through his step-daughter!
Regards,
Tony
Br Peter Stewart
Pete’s Par or Three
In 1969 after leaving the Schol I went to my old School at Daceyville where I taught Year 5 for 3 years and ran the tuckshop. I was also involved in the Parish with the choir both as member and eventually leader. From there I went to Canberra from 1972 – 1976, teaching Year 4, running the Tuckshop for 3 years and also became involved in the Canberra Philharmonic Society singing in the chorus mainly but also had a couple of minor roles. 1977 saw me move to Parramatta where again I taught year 5 and ran the Tuckshop.
In 1979 I was given the opportunity by Kieran to upgrade from Victorian Registration to 3 yr trained Dip Teaching at CCE, being the first Primary Brother to return to full time study. 1980 saw me at St Carthage’s Lismore and to my surprise was appointed Deputy and REC in the K-6 school. I took up playing golf on a regular basis while there, as well as being involved in the liturgical life of the Cathedral. In 1982 at Kieran’s request I went to New Zealand on exchange for two years and was there during the time when the Catholic Schools became ‘Integrated” which meant that religious as well as lay teachers were paid full salaries. Schools had to be brought up to an acceptable standard of facilities and were then maintained by the state as well as implications for the appointment of Brothers to schools. They now had to apply for positions like anyone else and could not just be appointed to a school by the Provincial. In my second year there I was appointed Deputy. I also continued to play golf on a regular basis. While there I had the opportunity to see a lot of New Zealand.
1984 I returned to Australia and to Marcellin Junior Coogee where I found myself teaching Year 6, Deputy to Cleophas [Anthony Atkinson – my year 6 teacher at Daceyville], REC and eventually external sports master. I was very active in the Parish as a member of the Liturgy Team, and Parish Council. In 1987 to my surprise I was appointed as Principal at Parramatta Marist Junior by Jack Alman. In 1992 I did the Second Nov and then spent the academic year in Ireland at the National Institute for Pastoral Liturgy in Carlow graduating in 1993 with a Diploma in Sacred Liturgy. While in Ireland I became very interested in researching my mother’s family history in England. Upon my return in June 1993 I was appointed to Canberra, in the role of Primary Principal. Chris Wade was the overall Headmaster.
I continued my research our family history and eventually wrote a book on my convict ancestors as they come down through the Jurd family – yes Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice was concocted by one of the great characters of our family. In July 1998 I resigned from Canberra and in October moved to Ashgrove in basically a non-teaching role although I did some relief teaching. I was involved in the RE centre, preparing the boarder’s liturgy each weekend, school liturgies etc, and also taking Brothers and students to medical and dental appointments. I was interested in becoming a Liturgy Co-ordinator in a parish. This was not to eventuate but a need for someone to act as carer/driver for our Senior Brothers at Campbelltown became evident and so I chose to take that on. In my four years here I have had the privilege of caring for Fergus, our beloved Novice Master, Stephen, Kenan, Canice, Frere Owen, & Clarence, to name a few. I can best describe my role at Campbelltown as “Chauffeur and go-fer”, and also community bursar. I am continuing with my family research on a regular basis, correcting and updating my book in preparation for 2012 when it will be re-released to mark the 200th wedding anniversary of Daniel & Elizabeth Jurd née Douglas.
In 1969 after leaving the Schol I went to my old School at Daceyville where I taught Year 5 for 3 years and ran the tuckshop. I was also involved in the Parish with the choir both as member and eventually leader. From there I went to Canberra from 1972 – 1976, teaching Year 4, running the Tuckshop for 3 years and also became involved in the Canberra Philharmonic Society singing in the chorus mainly but also had a couple of minor roles. 1977 saw me move to Parramatta where again I taught year 5 and ran the Tuckshop.
In 1979 I was given the opportunity by Kieran to upgrade from Victorian Registration to 3 yr trained Dip Teaching at CCE, being the first Primary Brother to return to full time study. 1980 saw me at St Carthage’s Lismore and to my surprise was appointed Deputy and REC in the K-6 school. I took up playing golf on a regular basis while there, as well as being involved in the liturgical life of the Cathedral. In 1982 at Kieran’s request I went to New Zealand on exchange for two years and was there during the time when the Catholic Schools became ‘Integrated” which meant that religious as well as lay teachers were paid full salaries. Schools had to be brought up to an acceptable standard of facilities and were then maintained by the state as well as implications for the appointment of Brothers to schools. They now had to apply for positions like anyone else and could not just be appointed to a school by the Provincial. In my second year there I was appointed Deputy. I also continued to play golf on a regular basis. While there I had the opportunity to see a lot of New Zealand.
1984 I returned to Australia and to Marcellin Junior Coogee where I found myself teaching Year 6, Deputy to Cleophas [Anthony Atkinson – my year 6 teacher at Daceyville], REC and eventually external sports master. I was very active in the Parish as a member of the Liturgy Team, and Parish Council. In 1987 to my surprise I was appointed as Principal at Parramatta Marist Junior by Jack Alman. In 1992 I did the Second Nov and then spent the academic year in Ireland at the National Institute for Pastoral Liturgy in Carlow graduating in 1993 with a Diploma in Sacred Liturgy. While in Ireland I became very interested in researching my mother’s family history in England. Upon my return in June 1993 I was appointed to Canberra, in the role of Primary Principal. Chris Wade was the overall Headmaster.
I continued my research our family history and eventually wrote a book on my convict ancestors as they come down through the Jurd family – yes Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice was concocted by one of the great characters of our family. In July 1998 I resigned from Canberra and in October moved to Ashgrove in basically a non-teaching role although I did some relief teaching. I was involved in the RE centre, preparing the boarder’s liturgy each weekend, school liturgies etc, and also taking Brothers and students to medical and dental appointments. I was interested in becoming a Liturgy Co-ordinator in a parish. This was not to eventuate but a need for someone to act as carer/driver for our Senior Brothers at Campbelltown became evident and so I chose to take that on. In my four years here I have had the privilege of caring for Fergus, our beloved Novice Master, Stephen, Kenan, Canice, Frere Owen, & Clarence, to name a few. I can best describe my role at Campbelltown as “Chauffeur and go-fer”, and also community bursar. I am continuing with my family research on a regular basis, correcting and updating my book in preparation for 2012 when it will be re-released to mark the 200th wedding anniversary of Daniel & Elizabeth Jurd née Douglas.
Tony Wagner
Great to hear from you after such a long time. Meeting Peter (Stewart) a couple of nights ago and now your email, so many memories come flooding back.I am still living in Leumeah (33 years now) and Beth and I are still surrounded by our ever growing family. We still have four children at home, four married and Joanne our youngest (17 years old) is very disabled and resides in a group home.We have five grandchildren and two more on the way.
I am still the HSIE Head teacher at Campbelltown Performing Arts High School and am enjoying my teaching. I still manage a game of squash every week and occasionally manage to win a game against the younger generation.
I am still the HSIE Head teacher at Campbelltown Performing Arts High School and am enjoying my teaching. I still manage a game of squash every week and occasionally manage to win a game against the younger generation.
Br. Frank Hough
Dear Mick and All
Greetings from Marikina Heights and what is called Mapac (Marist Asian Pacific Centre), a post-novitiate centre for formation of the student Brothers from those regions. I have been here for 5 years in formation and have this year to complete. I was happy to talk with Mick Prest recently on a visit to Sydney, mainly to visit Mum who is slowing down considerably and presently is in hospital under observation, mainly for mobility. She is 85 years old and was still living in the family house at Blakehurst. Some of you would know that Dad died in 1998 at the age of 80.
Since our great years at Dundas and Macquarie University, (pioneers -weren't we?), I was teaching for some years at Maitland in the good company of Tony Britton; Andrew was down the track at Hamilton. Then came a chance to study in Dundalk, Ireland, in the field of Religious Education and work (wander) around the Province, assisting in the development of RE teachers and programs. After a couple of years back at my home school, Kogarah, I traveled to Rome to attend to some formation studies, integrated with psychology. (Some may remember that I was always interested in psychology!) That led to being a formator in Madang, PNG, in 1987 and the next 8 years in the regional novitiate at Lomeri in Fiji. The latter a beautiful location amongst wonderful people. It was time to move on, this time to assist at a Formators' program in Lyons, France, an hour's drive from l'Hermitage, that gave so much to our Marist heritage. On the completion of the course, it was appropriate to return to Australia for a couple of years, to catch up with family and the Brothers of the Province. I was interested in our school at Berne, Lewisham, for 'multiple drop-outs' and was able to assist as part-time support teacher, guide and assessing psychologist. 2001 was a real experience in culture shock as I not only came to Manila, Philippines but was asked to get my driving licence on the day after arrival! By now I am a bit used to the traffic and am occupied well enough with teaching, accompaniment and organizing the weekly outreach program. On the staff presently are Jeff Crowe as rector and Ralph Arnell. Must have been that Dundas influence!
I naturally wonder what others in our group are doing and am very appreciative for the friendships along the way. Also there is great appreciation for our own formators, such as Fergus and Kieran. All the best and enjoy the gathering. My apologies but the academic year won't allow my involvement.
Kindly, Frank Hough
Greetings from Marikina Heights and what is called Mapac (Marist Asian Pacific Centre), a post-novitiate centre for formation of the student Brothers from those regions. I have been here for 5 years in formation and have this year to complete. I was happy to talk with Mick Prest recently on a visit to Sydney, mainly to visit Mum who is slowing down considerably and presently is in hospital under observation, mainly for mobility. She is 85 years old and was still living in the family house at Blakehurst. Some of you would know that Dad died in 1998 at the age of 80.
Since our great years at Dundas and Macquarie University, (pioneers -weren't we?), I was teaching for some years at Maitland in the good company of Tony Britton; Andrew was down the track at Hamilton. Then came a chance to study in Dundalk, Ireland, in the field of Religious Education and work (wander) around the Province, assisting in the development of RE teachers and programs. After a couple of years back at my home school, Kogarah, I traveled to Rome to attend to some formation studies, integrated with psychology. (Some may remember that I was always interested in psychology!) That led to being a formator in Madang, PNG, in 1987 and the next 8 years in the regional novitiate at Lomeri in Fiji. The latter a beautiful location amongst wonderful people. It was time to move on, this time to assist at a Formators' program in Lyons, France, an hour's drive from l'Hermitage, that gave so much to our Marist heritage. On the completion of the course, it was appropriate to return to Australia for a couple of years, to catch up with family and the Brothers of the Province. I was interested in our school at Berne, Lewisham, for 'multiple drop-outs' and was able to assist as part-time support teacher, guide and assessing psychologist. 2001 was a real experience in culture shock as I not only came to Manila, Philippines but was asked to get my driving licence on the day after arrival! By now I am a bit used to the traffic and am occupied well enough with teaching, accompaniment and organizing the weekly outreach program. On the staff presently are Jeff Crowe as rector and Ralph Arnell. Must have been that Dundas influence!
I naturally wonder what others in our group are doing and am very appreciative for the friendships along the way. Also there is great appreciation for our own formators, such as Fergus and Kieran. All the best and enjoy the gathering. My apologies but the academic year won't allow my involvement.
Kindly, Frank Hough
Thursday, August 26, 2004
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